Fall is one of the best times to explore the United States. While the mornings grow crisper and the days become shorter, there’s a wonderful sense of seasonal change in the air. Not only because of the changing leaves but because the festive season is right around the corner.
In fall, head to the mountains to see brightly colored foliage or to the beach to soak up a few more days of sun before winter sets in. There is also plenty to see and do in and around the bustling cities and charming towns.
Regardless of what type of vacation you prefer, there is something for every type of traveler. To help you find the perfect destination, here are the best fall vacations in the US.
To get you in the fall mood, check out these inspirational fall quotes.
Best Fall Vacations in the US
Whether you’re looking to explore a national park, visit a charming town, or indulge in delicious autumn comfort food, here are 16 spots to visit for the perfect fall getaway. As well as classics such as New England, we’ve included quite a few other places worth visiting in the autumn months.
When Is Peak Fall Foliage in the US?
Fall color moves across the country from north to south and from high ground to low ground, so timing matters as much as location. As a rough guide:
- Northern New England, the Adirondacks and the Upper Midwest: late September to early October
- Southern New England, the Hudson Valley and the Rockies: the Colorado aspens peak in mid to late September. Southern New England and the Hudson Valley follow from early to late October.
- The Appalachians (Smokies, Blue Ridge, Pisgah): early October at high elevations, running into early November in the valleys
- California and the Southwest: late October to mid-November
A warm, dry summer or an early frost can shift these windows by a week or two. Check a live foliage tracker before you book.
19. Aspen, Colorado
Few places do fall quite like Aspen. Each September, the town’s namesake trees turn the mountainsides a brilliant gold, set against the deep green of the pines and the first dusting of snow on the peaks.
The Maroon Bells are the star attraction, and seeing the twin peaks mirrored in Maroon Lake is one of the most photographed fall scenes in America. Visits are managed in season, so reserve a shuttle or parking slot in advance. For a scenic drive, head over Independence Pass on Highway 82 before it closes for winter, or follow Castle Creek Road south of town.
Between hikes, Aspen’s galleries, boutiques and restaurants are far quieter than in ski season, and shoulder-season rates make it a smart time to splurge.
Best time to visit: mid to late September
Where to stay: The Little Nell, Aspen’s only ski-in, ski-out hotel, right at the base of Aspen Mountain
18. The Berkshires, Massachusetts
Tucked into the western corner of Massachusetts, the Berkshires combine rolling hills and blazing foliage with a surprisingly sophisticated cultural scene. The region has long been a favorite weekend escape for New Yorkers and Bostonians.
Drive the Mohawk Trail, one of New England’s oldest scenic byways, or head up Mount Greylock, the highest point in the state, for sweeping views over the hills. In the charming towns of Lenox and Stockbridge, you can browse antique shops, visit the Norman Rockwell Museum or tour The Mount, Edith Wharton’s former estate.
Fall is also harvest season, so expect apple picking, farm stands and cozy country inns with roaring fires.
Best time to visit: late September to mid-October
Where to stay: Blantyre, a Tudor-style manor house hotel set on a private estate in Lenox
17. Great Smoky Mountains and Asheville
Straddling the border between North Carolina and Tennessee, Great Smoky Mountains National Park is the most visited national park in the US. Fall shows exactly why. More than 100 species of native trees create one of the most varied displays of color anywhere in the country.
Drive the Newfound Gap Road across the park, loop through the historic farmsteads of Cades Cove, or head up to Kuwohi (formerly Clingmans Dome) for views over the misty ridges. Note that a parking tag is required for any vehicle parked in the park for more than 15 minutes.
Just outside the park, the mountain city of Asheville has largely bounced back from Hurricane Helene. It makes a superb base, with its celebrated food scene, craft breweries and the grand Biltmore Estate, America’s largest home.
Best time to visit: early October at higher elevations to early November in the valleys
Where to stay: Blackberry Farm, an acclaimed luxury farm resort in the Tennessee foothills, or The Inn on Biltmore Estate in Asheville
16. San Diego County
San Diego has a year-round sunny and mild climate, so many of the trees do not shed their leaves in fall. While it may not offer as much in terms of autumnal displays as others, it makes up for it with plenty of seasonal activities, festivities, and fall fun.
This is a great destination for families traveling with kids. October marks the annual Kids Free San Diego event, where kids get free admission to various museums, theme parks, tours, and attractions throughout the city.
If you’d like to see fall colors, take a hike to Cuyamaca Rancho State Park, Volcan Mountain Wilderness Preserve, Mount Laguna or Palomar Mountain State Park.
Best time to visit: October, when Kids Free San Diego runs all month. Color in the mountains around Julian peaks from late October into November.
Where to stay: Hotel del Coronado, the landmark Victorian beachfront resort
15. Napa Valley
Fall in Napa Valley is an exciting time of the year to visit as the harvest seasons bring about plenty of unique experiences. It’s a busy time as many people flock to the wine region to see the colorful fall foliage transform the vineyards and to take part in the various harvest events.
Events include the Great Grape Stomp, wine tasting tours, and various harvest parties. You can also book a ride on a hot air balloon or the Napa Valley Wine Train and see the region from a unique perspective.
Best time to visit: September and October for harvest. The vineyards turn red and gold from late October into November.
Where to stay: Auberge du Soleil, perched above the vines in Rutherford
14. San Francisco
San Francisco experiences its warmer weather during fall season, making this a great time to visit. As most of the country pulls out their scarves and sweaters, you will notice that San Franciscans are enjoying the outdoors.
Fall in San Francisco is an ideal time to explore the city’s scenic surroundings or enjoy a picnic at one of the city’s sunny parks.
Best time to visit: September and October, typically the city’s warmest and sunniest months
Where to stay: The Fairmont San Francisco, the grande dame of Nob Hill
13. Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is the only Great Lake that lies entirely within the US. The lake stretches north-south, bordering the states of Illinois, Wisconsin, Indiana, and, as its name suggests, Michigan.
To see the fall colors, head to the M-22. This is a 116-mile long drive following the Lake Michigan shoreline looping around the Leelanau Peninsula and passing Sleeping Bear Dunes. Here, spend a sunny fall day driving along the scenic route and making stops along the way.
Best time to visit: early to mid-October along the Leelanau Peninsula
Where to stay: The Inn at Black Star Farms, a winery estate inn near Suttons Bay, just off M-22
12. Salt Lake City and the Wasatch
Salt Lake City, the capital of Utah, is a young and dynamic city. It is home to many historical and religious attractions, many of which can be seen on this Salt Lake City bus tour.
Other popular tourist spots here include the Great Salt Lake, Red Butte Garden and Arboretum, and the renovated Temple Square Visitors’ Center. The temple itself is still closed and the public open house is scheduled from April 5 to October 1, 2027.
Salt Lake City is also a great place for scenic drives. Rent a car and head to Wasatch Mountain Range and Alpine Loop Scenic Byway. Here you will find miles of rugged alpine canyons, glacier-carved peaks, and endless groves of deciduous trees. These landscapes are all the more stunning in fall as the autumn scenery sets in.
If you prefer to take your own car instead of renting one, it’s worth making sure your vehicle is properly insured before setting off. Comparing car insurance quotes can help you explore coverage options for your vehicle before your fall road trip.
Best time to visit: late September to early October, before the mountain byways close for winter
Where to stay: The Grand America Hotel, Salt Lake City’s most opulent address
11. New York City
Fall could well be the best time to visit New York City. Temperatures are comfortable for walking, the tree-lined avenues turn orange and gold, and the city starts gearing up for the festive season.
Central Park is the obvious place to see the leaves, especially around The Ramble, The Pond and the Conservatory Garden. The calendar is packed, too. The Village Halloween Parade takes over Sixth Avenue on October 31. The New York City Marathon winds through all five boroughs on the first Sunday of November. Fall ends in style with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
For more on what to do in this bustling city, here are some insider tips for New York.
Best time to visit: late October to mid-November for Central Park’s color
Where to stay: The Mark, a polished Upper East Side hideaway just steps from Central Park
10. Yellowstone National Park
Fall in Yellowstone National Park is one of the best times to visit for several reasons. The air is pleasantly crisp, and the scenic landscapes transform into a sea of autumnal hues. But best of all, the masses of summer tourists have returned home, so you can truly appreciate the park’s tranquil atmosphere.
Fall is also a great time to view the wildlife as they are much more active. During this time, the elk enter their breeding season, bears begin preparing for hibernation, and bison migrate to their winter feeding grounds.
Best time to visit: September to October. Most park roads close to regular vehicles on November 1, so readers should plan for September and October
Where to stay: Sage Lodge, a luxury ranch-style lodge in Montana’s Paradise Valley, near the North Entrance
9. Acadia National Park
October is a great time to visit Acadia National Park, following the departure of the large summer crowds. Those visiting Maine during this time are met by an autumn wonderland display, as the scenic landscapes take on a yellow and orange hue. A vehicle reservation is required to drive Cadillac Summit Road from May 20 through October 25, 2026, and it costs $6.
Along with viewing the brightly colored foliage, visitors can explore the various trails and marvel at the incredible wildlife. Note that the weather in early October is generally pleasant, but temperatures start dropping by the end of the month, so be sure to bring along your winter coat.
Best time to visit: early to mid-October. Book a Cadillac Summit Road vehicle reservation through October 25.
Where to stay: Bar Harbor Inn and Spa, overlooking Frenchman Bay
8. Lake Champlain Region
Lake Champlain gives you front-row seats to New England’s world-famous autumn foliage display. Starting in mid-September through October, the leaves surrounding the lake burst into color, creating a beautiful view for all to see.
Along with the breathtaking scenery, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. This includes hiking, boat rides, farmers’ markets, and plenty more. There are 14 beautiful Adirondack Coast Bikeways themed loops.
Best time to visit: late September to mid-October
Where to stay: Hotel Vermont, a design-led boutique hotel in Burlington, a short walk from the lakefront
7. North Shore, Minnesota
If you’re seeking a lovely outdoor fall trip, then head to Minnesota’s North Shore. Here you will find, magnificent foliage, colorful art tours, and so much more. It is also an ideal spot for camping.
Here, the beautiful landscapes and well-maintained backcountry campsites entice visitors to explore the scenic northern wilderness. Some noteworthy attractions include Lake Superior, Superior National Forest, and Gunflint Trail.
Best time to visit: mid-September to early October. Inland forests turn first and the shoreline follows.
Where to stay: Bluefin Bay on Lake Superior in Tofte, with lakeside suites and an on-site spa
6. Stowe and Mount Mansfield, Vermont
With its white-steepled church, covered bridges and mountain backdrop, Stowe is the picture-perfect New England village. Come fall, it is one of the most popular foliage destinations in the country.
Towering over the town is Mount Mansfield, the highest mountain in Vermont at 4,393 feet. You can hike to the summit, ride the gondola or take the Auto Toll Road for panoramic views across the Green Mountains to Lake Champlain. For a scenic drive, wind through Smugglers’ Notch, a narrow mountain pass framed by boulders and cliffs.
Back in the valley, the Stowe Recreation Path is perfect for a gentle walk or bike ride through the foliage. Vermont’s craft breweries, cider mills and cheesemakers make for a delicious afternoon.
Best time to visit: late September to mid-October
Where to stay: Topnotch Resort, a stylish mountain retreat with an excellent spa, minutes from the slopes
5. Pisgah National Forest
Pisgah National Forest comprises more than 500,000 acres of hardwood forest, mountain peaks, whitewater rivers, and thundering waterfalls. Located in the Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina, the area boasts hundreds of miles of some of the US’s top hiking trails.
While Pisgah National Forest is beautiful year-round, it seems to really pull out all the stops come fall. Whether on foot or on a scenic drive, you can expect some top-notch impressive autumnal displays.
The forest was badly hit by Hurrican Helene, so check current Forest Service closures before visiting.
Best time to visit: mid-October to early November, depending on elevation
Where to stay: The Greystone Inn, a historic lakeside mansion on Lake Toxaway
4. Yosemite National Park
Yosemite is a scenic national park found in Central California. It draws visitors year-round because of its beautiful waterfalls, giant sequoias, abundant wildlife, and awe-inspiring cliffs.
With a wide range of elevations, Yosemite National Park offers a completely different visual experience in the fall. The colorful foliage here is truly stunning, despite most trees being evergreen.
One of the best ways to experience the breathtaking scenery is by foot. To ensure you get the most out of your visit, check out this Yosemite day tour.
Best time to visit: late October to early November, when Yosemite Valley’s oaks, maples and dogwoods turn
Where to stay: The Ahwahnee, the park’s iconic 1920s lodge with views of Half Dome and Glacier Point
3. White Mountains of New Hampshire
The White Mountains are New Hampshire’s crown jewel and one of the finest places in New England to see fall color. Much of the region is protected as the White Mountain National Forest, a vast expanse of rugged peaks, rushing rivers, waterfalls, covered bridges and charming small towns.
The classic way to see the foliage is to drive the Kancamagus Highway. This scenic byway runs for around 34 miles between Lincoln and Conway with no gas stations or shops along the way, just mountain views and riverside stops such as Sabbaday Falls and the Lower Falls.
Nearby, Franconia Notch State Park offers the Flume Gorge and the Cannon Mountain Aerial Tramway, which whisks you above the treetops.
For a true bucket-list experience, ride the Mount Washington Cog Railway, the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway, to the summit of Mount Washington, the highest peak in the Northeast. Alternatively, sit back aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad, whose vintage trains wind through the dramatic Crawford Notch at the height of the foliage season.
Best time to visit: late September to mid-October
Where to stay: Omni Mount Washington Resort, the grand hotel at the foot of the Presidential Range
2. Hudson Valley
The Hudson Valley in New York is one of the best places to visit during fall, especially around Halloween. There are apple orchards located throughout the valley, many of which are open for visits. Here you can ‘u-pick’ apples and pears or pick out the perfect Jack o’Lantern at a pumpkin patch.
In addition to the Halloween festivities, Hudson Valley is also renowned for its fall colors. Much of the valley is wooded, so you’ll see plenty of trees boasting various shades of yellows, oranges, and reds. Some prime spots to see the colorful foliage are Minnewaska State Park and Mohonk Preserve.
Best time to visit: mid-October to early November
Where to stay: Mohonk Mountain House, a Victorian castle resort beside Lake Mohonk
1. Blue Ridge Parkway
Often called America’s Favorite Drive, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a National Parkway and All-American Road. It winds for 469 miles along the crest of the Appalachian Mountains, linking Shenandoah National Park in Virginia with Great Smoky Mountains National Park in North Carolina.
There are no traffic lights, no billboards and no entrance fee, just endless overlooks, tunnels and forested ridges stretching to the horizon.
Fall is when the parkway truly comes into its own. Because the road climbs and dips across a wide range of elevations, the color show lasts for weeks, starting on the highest peaks and gradually rolling down into the valleys.
Highlights include the historic Mabry Mill in Virginia, the graceful Linn Cove Viaduct as it curves around Grandfather Mountain, and Mount Mitchell, the highest peak east of the Mississippi. Near the southern end, the parkway passes right by Asheville, a perfect base with its food scene, breweries and the grand Biltmore Estate.
At the northern end, you can continue straight onto Skyline Drive through Shenandoah National Park.
Hurricane Helene update: Helene caused severe damage to the parkway in western North Carolina in September 2024, but recovery is now almost complete. As of early October 2026, 458 of the parkway’s 469 miles have reopened, with crews working on the final 11 miles and 48 of 60 landslide repairs finished. Closures can change at short notice, so always check the NPS Blue Ridge Parkway road status page before setting off.
Best time to visit: late September at the highest overlooks to early November at lower elevations
Where to stay: Primland, a mountaintop Auberge resort near the parkway in southern Virginia
Where Will You Be Visiting This Fall?
The United States offers plenty of amazing fall destinations – too many to include all in one list. However, from these picks, guarantee you will find the perfect fall getaway for your next vacation. Whether you’re seeking spectacular autumnal displays or fun activities for the whole family, there is something for everyone.
For more vacation ideas, check out these amazing luxury family destinations and holidays of a lifetime.
Fall Vacations in the US: FAQs
When is the best time to see fall foliage in the US?
It depends on where you go. Northern New England and the Upper Midwest usually peak from late September to early October, while the Appalachians peak through October into early November. California and the Southwest are the last to turn, typically from late October to mid-November.
Where are the best fall colors in the US?
New England is the classic choice, especially Vermont, New Hampshire and western Massachusetts. The Great Smoky Mountains, the Blue Ridge Parkway, the Hudson Valley and the golden aspens around Aspen, Colorado are just as spectacular.
What are the best warm fall vacations in the US?
For sunshine rather than sweaters, head to San Diego or San Francisco, where September and October are among the warmest months of the year. Napa Valley is another great choice, with warm harvest days and cool evenings.
What are the best fall vacations in the US for families?
San Diego is hard to beat in October, thanks to Kids Free San Diego. The Hudson Valley is perfect for apple picking and pumpkin patches. National parks such as Acadia and the Great Smoky Mountains offer easy trails and plenty of wildlife.
Is fall a cheaper time to travel in the US?
Often, yes. Once the summer crowds leave, many destinations offer lower hotel rates, especially in September and on weekdays. Peak foliage weekends in New England and the Smokies are the exception, so book those well ahead.
How far in advance should I book a fall foliage trip?
For popular spots such as Stowe, Acadia and the Smokies, aim to book three to six months ahead, especially for weekends in early to mid-October. Some national parks also need timed reservations, such as Acadia’s Cadillac Summit Road.
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